Indyassumptions

Those who believe Brexit will inevitably lead to Scottish independence make three big assumptions.

Firstly, the likely compromise deal with the EU will cause consternation, rather than simple relief, which is

arguably the likelier reaction.

Second, Scotland would need to more widely embrace the SNP’S negative grievancedriven attitude towards the rest of the UK, although at present opinion polls suggest the majority are unmoved.

Thirdly, the economic case

needs to add up, whereas the latest Growth Commission attempt simply replaces previous unrealistic oil revenues with equally unrealistic growth forecasts, justified on very selective examples of better performing economies, throwing in a decade of austerity for good measure.

Just now Nicola Sturgeon likely knows the majority valuetheukmorethantheeu, and that an honest economic case for an independent Scotland has to contemplate considerable pain and uncertainty before any gain.

If so, why does she not put off any talk of a second referendum until after the next Holyrood elections in 2021, or must her party always come before our country?

KEITH HOWELL West Linton, Peeblesshire